This started a month ago. The radio and radio lights will come on for about a second then turn off for about a second continuously. I can also hear a fan in the head unit cycle on and off along with the radio. The radio plays while it is on for the one second. Nothing else seems affected. Anybody seen this before?

 

What year model, and what radio.

My standard radio does not have a fan in it.

My guess is that if a fan comes on then the unit turns off, you have an overheating problem, that usually means deplace radio.

 

It does it all the time even when cold so it's not overheating. It's a 2007 LT with the single CD radio.

 

The fan would not come on if something was not overheating!

Like some electronic component is scrapped. It is basically a tiny computer.

 

Hey mike,

Have you considered taking your HHR into a certified Chevy dealership for an inspection? It can be challenging trying to fix this yourself, but the dealership can provide a second set of eyes. If you're interested in working with them I'll gladly contact them on your behalf. Just private message us your VIN, mileage, and contact information if you'd like additional assistance.

Amber N.
Chevrolet Customer Care

 

Could it be the CD drive motor you hear running? Maybe it thinks a CD is inserted. Try inserting and removing a CD.